Across basketball courts from Los Angeles to Grand Rapids, an unexpected figure has been turning heads with his impressive skills on the hardwood. But this isn’t an up-and-coming NBA prospect or overseas phenom – it’s none other than comedy superstar Adam Sandler.
The Sandman’s Got Game
Best known for his blockbuster films and trademark sense of humor, Sandler has quietly been honing his craft on the basketball court for years. And according to those who’ve witnessed his skills firsthand, the 57-year-old funnyman can more than hold his own against players half his age.
“I was like damn, that looks like Adam Sandler,” recalls Los Angeles photographer Xavier Luggage of his first encounter with the actor at a local park. But it was Sandler’s play, not his famous face, that left the biggest impression.
He’s like the random older dude that pulls up to the court and you’re kind of like, ‘alright he’s whatever,’ and then you pick him up and he’s making the craziest passes.
Xavier Luggage, photographer
A Humble Hooper
Despite his celebrity status, Sandler is far from a diva on the court. Clad in baggy shorts and oversized t-shirts, he arrives at games without an entourage, content to wait his turn and eager to compete.
“He definitely had a competitive side to him,” notes DJ Foster, who played with Sandler at Aquinas College in Michigan. “That fifth game was pretty competitive and we were trying to win it for bragging rights and to have that story to tell the rest of your life.”
Passing With Flying Colors
While he may not possess the athleticism of his NBA counterparts, Sandler’s basketball calling card is his uncanny court vision and pinpoint passing ability. From behind-the-back dishes to no-look bullets, the comedian consistently wows teammates and opponents alike with his creative playmaking.
It’s still the best pass that I’ve ever received in my life, and I’m not saying that because it’s Adam Sandler.
Joshua Jackson, pickup teammate
That pass Jackson references was a lightning-quick pocket pass he received from Sandler during a game in Georgia, one he promptly converted for an easy layup. “I just literally turn[ed] around and it was in my bread basket,” Jackson marvels. “It was a perfect pocket pass. I had to go up with it.”
More Than Just Jokes
Of course, Sandler’s basketball exploits are hardly a revelation to those who’ve seen him on screen. The hoops-obsessed actor has worked the sport into many of his most famous films, from Happy Gilmore to Uncut Gems.
But to the everyday hoopers who’ve been lucky enough to share the court with him, Adam Sandler the basketball player is every bit as memorable as Adam Sandler the movie star. And for a select few, the experience of playing with the Sandman will be a story they’ll be telling for years to come.
As for Sandler himself, don’t expect to see him trading his baggy shorts for an NBA jersey anytime soon. Basketball may be his passion, but for this celebrated comedian, the joy of the game will always be its own reward.
